PDF 10.2 MB - Thayer County Economic Development Allliance

Transcription

PDF 10.2 MB - Thayer County Economic Development Allliance
Mountain Time Zone
385
2
Harrison
astle
White R
ive
Ponca
9
SIOUX
South Sioux City
D A K O TA
75
35
29
Niobrara Riv
er
16
51
75
Mi
ri
R
rn
LEWIS & CLARK
SCENIC BYWAY
Wahoo
275
77
Ashland
Greenwood 6
Eagle
Elmwood
2
4
Wymore
8
71
HERITAGE
HIGHWAY
9
Lake McConaughy
26
DEUEL
30
Platt
er
e Ri v
50
4
PAW N E E
Pawnee City
8
NEMAHA
62
Humboldt
75
67
Shubert
CO
RICHARDSON
2
30
U.S.Road
Numbered Route
U.S.
80
30
InterstateHighway
Numbered Route
Interstate
Mile Marker for I-80 Visitor Center
Nebraska Byway
Airport
State Numbered Route
Bus Terminal or Stop
U.S. Numbered Route
Major River
80
Interstate
Numbered Route
County Boundary
2
Panhandle80Region
Visitor Centers
222 Interstate
PrairieRiver
Lakes Region
Major
Sandhills Region
County Boundary
Frontier Trails Region
Pioneer Country Region
Metro Region
Lewis and Clark Region
Stapleton
132
30
Ogallala
124
61
er
159
Sutherland
80
Paxton
25
61
CHASE
6
23
Enders
Champion
Enders
Reservoir
State Road
222
State Numbered Route
23
River
Lewis & ClarkMajor
Scenic
Byway
U.S. Hwy 30
800-652-9435
LincolnHighwayNebraskaByway.com
Joh
L
17
Elwood
FRONTIER
GOS
Harry D. Strunk Lake
(Medicine Creek Reservoir)
McCook
a
Republic
r
n Rive
RED WILLOW
83
89
Airport
Panhandle Region
Western Trails
Prairie Lakes Region
Scenic & Historic Byway
Interstate Highway
26 and NE Hwy 92
Sandhills Region
2
State800-658-4390
Numbered Route
30
VisitNebraska.gov/westerntrails
U.S. Numbered
Route
Pioneer Country Region
80
Frontier Trails Region
Interstate Numbered Route
Major River
County Boundary
Metro Region
To view Nebraska’s
Byways
Lewis
and Clark
Region
photos, videos and
more,
log on
to
VisitNebraska.gov/byways
For current weather and road conditions,
call 511 from any wireless or Nebraska phone.
Ediso
283
Central Time Zone
Nebraska
U.S.Byway
Hwy
Arapahoe
6 Cambridge
U.S. Road
Metro Region
Lincoln Highway
Scenic & Historic Byway
6
NE Hwy 2
308-546-0636
StateSandhillsJourney.com
Road
Pioneer Country Region
Lex
21
18
83
231
283
Sandhills Journey Scenic Byway
U.S. Hwy 136
888-404-1315 80 Interstate Numbered Route
Frontier Trails
Region
HeritageHighway136.com
222 Interstate 80 Visitor Centers
Cozad
Curtis
NE Hwy 12
402-582-4866
NebraskaOutlawTrail.org
Heritage Highway
U.S. Hwy 75
County Boundary
Lewis and402-685-5175
Clark Region
LewisAndClarkScenicByway.com
47
Outlaw Trail Scenic Byway
U.S. Hwy 20
Interstate Highway
402-376-2969
Bus Terminal
or Stop
Nebraska Byway
VisitNebraska.gov/bridges
Airport
U.S. Numbered Route
25
Gothenburg
iver
NE Hwy 11 and NE Hwy 91
308-728-3393
LoupRiversScenicByway.com
Bridges to Buttes
U.S. RoadByway
2
Pla
tte
R
Wellfleet
Hugh Butler Lake
(Red Willow Reservoir)
Trenton
47
80 30
Loup Rivers Scenic Byway
U.S. Hwy 385
866-545-4030
VisitNebraska.gov/goldrush
30
Swanson
Reservoir
Benkelman
34
385 – Gold Rush Byway
Sandhills Region
83
HITCHCOCK
Mountain Time Zone
Prairie Lakes Region
25
6
34
Republican River
199
Jeffrey
Reservoir
Hayes Center
Imperial
MO
Panhandle Region
Maloney
Reservoir
25
DUNDY
KS
Maxwell
Sutherland
Reservoir
H AY E S
n Creek
Broke
Callaway
40
North Platte
159
Wallace
Ans
CUSTER
Arnold
40
83
LINCOLN
23
92
92
LINCOLN HIGHWAY
BYWAY
61
Falls City
159
Nebraska Byway
State
StateRoad
Numbered Route
222
KEITH
Nor
th P
latte
Riv
61
WESTERN TRAILS
HISTORIC & SCENIC
BYWAY
IA
Brownville
Nemaha
Interstate Highway
379
385
Lemoyne
92
Lewellen
Fre
nc
hma
WY
Peru
U.S. Road
379
27
26
SD
75
Auburn
91
2
97
MN
ur
i
State Road
272
80
61
Bre
BLAINE
SANDHILLS
JOURNEY
SCENIC BYWAY
LOGAN
Tryon
23
Nebraska City
50
Halsey
Dunning
83
92
Arthur
PERKINS
map key
222
ARTHUR
Grant
M
OTOE
HOOKER
2
MCPHERSON
Oshkosh
Lodgepole
Chappell
Sidney
[ regional map ]
136
Tecumseh
Filley
WESTERN TRAILS
HISTORIC & SCENIC
BYWAY
LINCOLN HIGHWAY
BYWAY
v er
Ri
136
30
o
77
GARDEN
Weeping Water
34
75
41
eatrice
Odell 77
34
JOHNSON
41
Potter
Bellevue
a tt
e River
Syracuse
Hickman
Kimball
THOMAS
Thedford
92
iss
2
NCASTER
Broadwater
385—
GOLD RUSH
BYWAY
CHEYENNE
SARPY
Springfield
50
SANDHILLS
JOURNEY
SCENIC BYWAY
61
66
South Louisville Plattsmouth
Bend
CASS
1
80 Waverly
Lincoln
80
Pl
432
Hyannis
Seneca
2
Mullen
97
26
Dalton
Omaha
2
Ellsworth
Middle Loup Riv
er
Whitman
385
KIMBALL
Papillion
Gretna
385
26
Bridgeport
75
Elkhorn
2
Riv
er
83
7
MORRILL
71
30
Boys Town
Ralston
454
Yutan
La Vista80
92
SAUNDERS
GE
Harrisburg
DOUGLAS
Valley
Bayard
88
Fort
B A Calhoun
NNER
30
Arlington
77
77
Blair
WASHINGTON
79
87
GRANT
tte
Rive
r
92
88
Fremont
30
Pla
BROWN
Nor
th L
oup
61
Minatare
SCOTTS BLUFF
75
275
Nor
th
97
385
Scottsbluff
Gering
Tekamah
32
ive
r
DODGE
nt Dale
er
Oakland
77
o
kh
El
h
d
Mitchell
92
BURT
32
Scribner
Riv
oint
G
Lake Minatare
Ainsw
27
Alliance
Henry
Morrill
26
ss
ou
1
20
Merritt Reservoir
250
385
WESTERN TRAILS
HISTORIC & SCENIC
BYWAY
OUTLAW TRAIL
SCENIC BYWAY
12
Valentine
BRIDGES
TO BUTTES
BYWAY
er
CHERRY
L7E
2
Sparks
Nenzel
Clinton
SHERIDAN
Hemingford
BOX BUTTE
Macy
77
20
ra R
iv
Central Time Zone
Kilgore
87
2
Bancroft
Decatur
Lyons
9
71
71
kefield
Winnebago
THURSTON
9
385—
GOLD RUSH
BYWAY
Box Butte
Reservoir
Dakota City
LEWIS & CLARK
SCENIC BYWAY
Pender 94
2
ob
ra
Hay Springs
DAWES
r
Rushville
20
385
Merriman
20
Gordon
Whitney
Crawford
20
Chadron
20
Whitney Lake
BRIDGES
TO BUTTES
BYWAY
BRIDGES
TO BUTTES
BYWAY
27
87
Ni
N
71
Cody
FURNAS
Naper
12
K E YA PA H A
Springview
7
183
Spencer
Stuart
20
Lynch
r
Lewis and Clark Lake
Santee
Niob
rara
R
OUTLAW TRAIL
SCENIC BYWAY
11
Bassett
20
Long Pine
Mis
sou
ri R
ive
BOYD
Butte
137
worth
84
20
O'Neill
ve
20
r
Lo
up
R
BUFFALO
LINCOLN HIGHWAY
BYWAY
136
183
HERITAGE
HIGHWAY
Alma
Harlan County Lake
74
4
WEBSTER
Litt
le
Republican River
Bl u
e
4
Ri
Guide Rock
81
Superior
Friend
15
41
4
JEFFERSON
15
T H AY E R
Hebron
Fairbury
HERITAGE
HIGHWAY
8
Eagle
2
LANCASTER
33
77
Wilber
103
4
4
136
Deshler 81
SALINE
432
Lincoln
77
136
GAGE
Odell 77
34
Elmwood
8
Weeping Water
34
75
2
4
HERITAGE
HIGHWAY
M
ur
i
Nebraska City
OTOE
50
136
Tecumseh
Filley
Wymore
Springfield
66
South Louisville Plattsmouth
Bend
CASS
1
41
Beatrice
454
Bellevue
SARPY
50
a tt
e River
JOHNSON
41
136
80
Syracuse
Hickman
Omaha
Papillion
80 Waverly
33 Crete
74
Edgar
ve
r
6
34
Elkhorn
Boys Town
Ralston
Yutan
La Vista
Ashland
Greenwood 6
6
Pleasant Dale
Milford
Geneva
74
NUCKOLLS
136
FILLMORE
C L AY
14
Red Cloud
Fairmont
6
Sutton
Clay Center
14
281
FRANKLIN
136
74
281
10
Franklin
6
ADAMS
80
81
348
14
Harvard
Utica Seward
353
77
Branched
Oak Lake
DOUGLAS
Gretna
SAUNDERS
75
v er
Ri
Oxford
34
KEARNEY
4
H A M I LTO N
SEWARD
81
York
79
15
275
Valley
92
r
ve
Ri
HARLAN
10
34
Aurora
92
92
ue
6
Holdrege
YORK
Wahoo
Big Blue R
iv
Stromsburg
281
6
Minden
81
14
30
Hastings
POLK
Fort Calhoun
30
Arlington
77
David City
Blair
WASHINGTON
Fremont
30
79
15
64
BUTLER
LEWIS & CLARK
SCENIC BYWAY
Bl
89
10
PHELPS
Central City
80
Gibbon
er
LINCOLN HIGHWAY
BYWAY
MERRICK
34
80
Riv
75
ive
r
275
DODGE
Big
on
263
183
30
30
Grand Island
Wood River
Kearney
44
11
2
HALL
tt e
P la
North
Bend
Schuyler
Columbus
Tekamah
32
77
o
iss
Elm
Creek
SPER
6
10
40
hnson
Lake
23
Cairo
SANDHILLS
JOURNEY
SCENIC BYWAY
281
Fullerton
LINCOLN HIGHWAY
BYWAY
ss
ou
BURT
Oakland
32
Scribner
COLFAX
Lake
Babcock
Mi
Pl
Ravenna
92
St. Libory
Dannebrog
10
183
DAWSON
xington
St. Paul
HOWARD
Litchfield
14
i v er
Loup R
281
91
er
40
21
r
Elba
SHERMAN
2
ive
11
Sherman
Reservoir
Loup City
92
NANCE
22
er
Riv
So
ut
h
58
92
22
L
p
ou
70
22
Genoa
39
9
CUMING
15
91
81
P L AT T E
14
rth
No
70
Scotia
91
39
BOONE
Greeley
North Loup
Ansley
21
GREELEY
11
70
Comstock
91
Ord 70
Humphrey
75
Bancroft
Decatur
Lyons
West Point
32
S TA N TO N
Macy
77
R
rn
183
Albion
Stanton Wisner 275
Madison 57
32
14
16
51
o
kh
El
Elyria
VA L L E Y
Merna
281
70
Pender 94
15
275
81
MADISON
11
Sargent
275
Wakefield
Winnebago
THURSTON
9
16
35
Dakota City
LEWIS & CLARK
SCENIC BYWAY
WAY N E
Norfolk
75
35
9
er
R iv
GARFIELD
Taylor
81
70
Burwell
91
Middl
e Lou i
p R v er
WHEELER
15
D A K O TA
Wayne
98
13
South Sioux City
20
Dixon
57
Pierce
Neligh
14
59
Ponca
9
ri
LOUP RIVERS
SCENIC BYWAY
20
ANTELOPE
275
281
Calamus
Reservoir
Plainview
DIXON
15
20
PIERCE
11
96
57
13
14
Royal
n
Ri
Chambers
LOUP
CEDAR
81
Newcastle
12
Hartington
84
Creighton
k
r
ho
El
281
183
en Bow
Bloomfield
Atkinson
ROCK
selmo
KNOX
N
Missouri Riv
er
Crofton
14
281
OUTLAW TRAIL
SCENIC BYWAY
121
Niobrara
12
ive
r
H O LT
20
ewster
R
12
iver
ra R
bra
Nio
50
4
PAW N E E
Pawnee City
8
Peru
75
Auburn
Brownville
NEMAHA
Nemaha
62
Humboldt
75
[ interstate 80 visitor centers ]
67
Shubert
RICHARDSON
Falls City
159
State Road
U.S. Road
Interstate Highway
Looking for information about Nebraska?
The state-staffed visitor centers along I-80 are
Nebraska-Omaha Travel Information Center*
Mile Marker 454
402-595-3990
WY
easy to find. Each center offers a variety of
CO
brochures, maps and other travel information.
Most are open Memorial Day–LaborState
Day,
Road
U.S. Road
8 a.m.–5 p.m.
Interstate Highway
Nebraska Byway
Nebraska Byway
2
State308-784-5516
Numbered Route
30
U.S. Numbered Route
80
Interstate Numbered Route
Melia Hill Westbound
Mile Marker 432
402-332-2658
Brady Westbound
Mile222
Marker 199
Mile Marker
MN 353
402-362-1548
272
Sutherland
Westbound
Mile
379 Marker 159
a great place to start. We’ve listed the centers
Regional Map & Key
York Westbound
here and marked them on the map so they’re
Cozad Eastbound
Mile Marker 222
SD
York Eastbound
Mile MarkerIA348
Kearney Eastbound
KS
MO
Mile
Marker 263
Cozad Westbound
Airport
Mile Marker
231 Region
Panhandle
Prairie Lakes Region
379
Sutherland
402-362-1549
425
308-865-5427
9
Ogallala
Westbound
Mile Marker 132
308-784-5514
Ogallala Eastbound
Mile Marker 124
*Open mid-March through mid-November.
Sandhills Region
2
State Numbered Route
30
U.S. Numbered Route
Pioneer Country Region
80
Interstate Numbered Route
Metro Region
Major River
Lewis and Clark Region
Frontier Trails Region
Eastbound
Mile Marker 159
222
308-582-4720
Mile Marker for I-80 Visitor Center
Airport
308-386-2534
Bus Terminal
or Stop
Major River
County Boundary
308-386-4425
Panhandle Region
Prairie Lakes Region
308-284-8074
Sandhills
Region
Frontier Trails Region
Pioneer Country Region
308-284-8073
Metro Region
Lewis and Clark Region
CABELA’S
ROWE
SANCTUARY
GREAT PLATTE
RIVER ROAD
ARCHWAY
Stop.Play.Stay.
®
Stop.Play.Stay.
®
Situated in the south-central part of Nebraska, Kearney is the
perfect place to stop, play, stay on your way from Interstate 80 or
Highway 30.
The Great Platte River Road Archway is an exciting stop to
experience the adventures of the Oregon and Mormon Trails as well
as the Lincoln Highway and beyond with 12 unique walk-through,
environments..Also
immersive environments
Alsocheck
checkout
outthe
theNEW
NEWEarth
EarthLodge,
Lodge,
the largest in the United States constructed with all-natural
materials in a traditional method.
Kearney also offers outstanding entertainment, recreational,
historical and cultural attractions along with a variety of
restaurants and shopping opportunities.
SANDHILL
CCAPITAL
RANE
OFTHE WORLD
SCAN QR CODE FOR
MOBILE WEBSITE
For a Kearney visitor’s guide
visit www.visitkearney.org or CALL 800-652-9435
[ Table of contents ]
Get up and on your way
Byways Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Inside Front Cover
Relive special memories of road trips past with a visit to Nebraska.
Interactive Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
With all there is to see and do, you’ll find it easy to re-create your
Travel Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
History & Heritage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4–5
Great Outdoors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6–7
Sports & Recreation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8–9
favorite adventures while reconnecting with family and friends.
So what are you waiting for? Load up the car, pack some snacks
Golf . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10–11
and embark on the kind of vacation you enjoyed when you were
Capital City . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12–13
younger—a getaway filled with interesting stops, fun-filled days
Arts & Culture . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14–15
and unforgettable moments.
Local Libations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16–17
Culinary Travel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18–19
Natural Encounters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20–21
Agricultural Experiences . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22–23
Scenic Byways . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24–27
Kids’ Games . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28–29
Panhandle Region . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30–41
Prairie Lakes Region . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42–51
Sandhills Region . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52–63
Frontier Trails Region . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64–75
Pioneer Country Region . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76–87
Metro Region . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 88–107
Lewis and Clark Region . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108–119
Events . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 120–131
Hotels & Motels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 132–147
Unique Accommodations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 148–157
Campgrounds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 158–174
Attraction Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 175–177
City Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 178–179
Advertiser Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 179
[ About the cover ]
An amazing display of stars twinkle in the night sky
above Lake McConaughy, a recreational hot spot
near Ogallala. Photo by Rick Neibel.
[ contact Info ]
Nebraska Department of Economic Development
Travel and Tourism Division
P.O. Box 98907 • Lincoln, NE 68509-8907
888-444-1867
tourism@VisitNebraska.org
VisitNebraska.gov
Nebraska Game and Parks Commission
P.O. Box 30370 • Lincoln, NE 68503-0370
800-826-PARK or 402-471-0641
OutdoorNebraska.org
Nebraska Department of Economic Development,
Travel and Tourism Division: Kathy McKillip,
Director; Paula Bohaty, Group Tours; Micheal
Collins, Development & Planning; Heather Hogue,
Data Management; Karen Kollars, Agri-Tourism;
Shannon Peterson, Public Relations; Tom Tabor,
Eco-Tourism; Twyla Witt, Byways Liaison.
The Nebraska Travel Guide is produced by Snitily Carr
for the Travel and Tourism Division.
For advertising, call Snitily Carr at 402-489-2121.
LOOKING FOR MORE ABOUT NEBRASKA?
Get travel advice, interact with others and find up-to-the-minute information about what to do on
your trip to Nebraska.
Buffalo Bill Ranch State
Historical Park, North Platte
PODCASTS
E-NEWSLETTER
Download and watch videos at VisitNebraska.gov,
Sign up for Destination Nebraska
YouTube and iTunes.
at VisitNebraska.gov.
FACEBOOK
MOBILE
Become a fan, post pictures and share
Access Nebraska Tourism’s mobile website
your Nebraska vacation experiences at
on your smartphone for events, attractions,
Facebook.com/VisitNebraska.
recreation and videos when you’re on the go.
TWITTER
Follow us @NebraskaTourism.
QR CODES
Use your smartphone equipped with a reader
application to scan QR codes throughout the
Nebraska Travel Guide. They’ll lead
you to informative podcasts and
interactive listings to enhance
your experience.
rediscover the
[ travel Info ]
ROAD TRIP in Nebraska Safety Regulations
n
Sandhills
Lewis
and Clark
n
n
Panhandle
Prairie
Lakes
Metro
Frontier
Trails
Pioneer
Country
The Nebraska Travel Guide is the definitive source for planning your next getaway. The guide provides
detailed information specific to each of Nebraska’s seven regions.
For accommodation information, refer to the keys at the bottom of each two-page spread in the regional
sections of this guide. The icons direct you to the charts beginning on page 132.
Seat belts – Children up to age 6 are required
to ride in an approved car seat or booster seat.
Seat belts are required for adults in the front
seat and for children 6–18.
Helmets – Motorcycle operators and
passengers are required to wear a helmet.
Texting – Texting while driving is prohibited.
Breaking the law is a secondary offense.
Time Zones
The western third of the state operates on
Mountain Time, while the central and eastern
portions of Nebraska are on Central Time.
Breathe Easy
Nebraska is a smoke-free state; smoking is
banned in all public workplaces, including bars
and restaurants.
— Hotels & Motels
Transportation
— Unique Accommodations (Bed & Breakfasts and Guest Ranches)
n
— Campgrounds
n
Look for a statewide listing of select events beginning on page 120. For a complete list, go to
VisitNebraska.gov/events, where you can search by regions, cities, dates and types of events.
— Events
n
Use the indexes located at the back of this guide to find page numbers for all attractions, cities and advertisers.
n
See it All
A
NE
IN
Average Temperatures
100
R
R
W
W
IN
WAR
D
WAR
D
A
You’ll notice some shaded entries throughout the guide—these are our advertising partners. And look for the
“Award Winner” symbol, which means that the Nebraska Travel and Tourism Division honored the attraction,
event or organization for outstanding contributions in the past year.
You’ll also see a “Greener Nebraska”
symbol throughout the guide, signifying attractions that are certified members of the statewide program.
Interstate travel – I-80 stretches more than
450 miles across the state from east to west.
Air travel – Commercial air travel is available
at two larger airports in Lincoln and Omaha
as well as at several regional airports across
the state.
Bus travel – Bus stops can be found in 14
different communities throughout the state.
Train travel – Amtrak stops in McCook,
Holdrege, Hastings, Lincoln and Omaha.
NE
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Average Low
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Expand Your Search
There’s a whole lot more in store at VisitNebraska.gov. You’ll find a travel planner, itineraries, downloadable
brochures, videos, photo galleries, vacation packages, kids’ activities and other great tools to help you plan
your Nebraska getaway.
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While considerable effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the listings throughout this publication,
the Nebraska Travel Guide and the Travel and Tourism Division do not accept responsibility
for the accuracy of information including telephone numbers listed in this publication.
Printed on paper manufactured with virgin pulp from certified
sources and a minimum of 10% post-consumer recovered fiber.
VisitNebraska.gov
For current weather and road conditions,
call 511 from any wireless
or landline phone in Nebraska.
Dial 800-906-9069 from outside the state.
Travel Information
3.
R. Neibel
History lessons
Ash Hollow State Historical Park, Lewellen
Nebraska is rich with history, and
Nebraskans take great pride in this fact.
Those traveling throughout the state
will find countless opportunities to learn
Another common pioneer stop was Ash Hollow
near Lewellen. Wagon ruts from those heading west
are still visible on Windlass Hill.
One of the most recognizable landmarks is
Chimney Rock near Bayard. Jutting into the Nebraska
skyline, it was a welcome sight for weary pioneers
about our heritage and those who
making their way across the prairie.
shaped it. Come listen to our stories,
The people
of the plains
and seize the chance to create your own.
Way out West
4.
History & Heritage
frontier, Nebraska was home to several American
Indian nations, including the Omaha, Otoe-Missouria,
Arapaho, Cheyenne, Pawnee, Lakota and Ponca.
Chimney Rock National
Historic Site, Bayard
J. Nabb
Lewis and Clark’s exploratory journey through the
Louisiana Purchase in 1803 marked the beginning
of westward expansion that brought thousands of
pioneers across the country in search of new opportunities. The Oregon, Mormon and California trails all
wound their way through Nebraska. Evidence of their
existence can be seen in the historic way stations and
wagon ruts that still remain today.
Offering food and supplies, Rock Creek Station
near Fairbury was a widely used rest stop for those
traveling the Oregon and California trails. Also serving
as a Pony Express station, it gained notoriety after
Wild Bill Hickok began his gunfighting career there
by shooting David McCanles.
Before European settlers began to inhabit the western
Today, proud tribal heritage can be seen at traditional
events, historic places and cultural centers across the
state. Several powwows showcasing the rich traditions of American Indian tribes are held in Nebraska
throughout the year.
You can catch a glimpse of what primitive
American Indian life was like at Dancing Leaf near
Wellfleet. A re-created earth lodge and medicine wheel,
along with other archeological information and artifacts, bring this piece of history to life.
Two of the best-known American Indians to have
left a legacy in Nebraska are Red Cloud and Standing
Bear. Born in western Nebraska, Red Cloud rose to
prominence as a warrior of the Oglala Lakotas. He
opposed westward expansion, first waging war and
then negotiating with the U.S. government to protect
and preserve his people’s way of life. The visitor center
at Agate Fossil Beds National Monument south of
Harrison houses a collection of artifacts from Red
Cloud and his people, including shirts, moccasins,
bags, war clubs and pipes.
Standing Bear, a Ponca chief from northeast
Nebraska who was among those forcibly removed to
a reservation in Oklahoma, argued that he was entitled
to legal rights protected by the U.S. Constitution.
He won his case and the American Indian was finally
regarded as “a person within the meaning of the law.”
You can further explore Ponca culture and history at
the Ponca Tribal Museum in Niobrara.
Can you dig it?
Travel even further back in time along Nebraska’s
portion of the Fossil Freeway (fossilfreeway.net),
a north-south corridor across the Panhandle that
includes six fossil-featuring destinations. Top
Agate Fossil Beds National
Monument, Harrison
eum
ate Mus
Nebraska St
University of
n
ol
istory, Linc
of Natural H
stops include Agate Fossil
Beds National Monument and
Hudson-Meng Research and
Education Center, where you can
view the largest bison bone bed in
the Western Hemisphere.
Join in the adventure yourself at
Ashfall Fossil Beds State Historical
Park, an active dig site in northeast
Nebraska where you can find fossilized
skeletons of animals that died after a
volcanic eruption 12 million years ago.
No archeological trip would be complete without
a stop at the University of Nebraska State Museum
of Natural History, located in Morrill Hall on the
University of Nebraska campus in Lincoln. Immerse
yourself in the world’s finest collection of
fossil elephants and peruse exhibits highlighting
centuries of history.
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Dancing Leaf Earth Lodge,
Wellfleet
American Indians, pgs. 108–109
Forts, pg. 55
History-focused attractions,
pgs. 33, 44, 45, 55, 64–65, 66,
67, 76–77, 79, 91, 110–111
Fort fun
VisitNebraska.gov
Fort Robinson State
Park, Crawford
History & Heritage
R. Neibel
For the perfect mix of history and recreation, head to Fort Robinson State Park
near Crawford. April through November, visitors can set up camp or stay in one of
the park’s cabins or lodges, and daily activities such as hayrack breakfasts, horse-drawn
tours, swimming, Jeep or train tours, cookouts and more are available year-round.
Find more family fun at former forts across the state, including Fort Hartsuff State
Historical Park near Burwell, Fort Kearny State Historical Park near Kearney,
Fort Atkinson State Historical Park near Fort Calhoun, and Fort Sidney Museum
and Post Commander’s Home in Sidney.
5.
Pintail Duck Hunting, Aurora
NEBRASKAland Magazine/NGPC
The call
of the wild
Whether you have a hunger for hunting or a fascination with fishing,
Nebraska’s fields and waters are the perfect places to find satisfaction.
Expanded
opportunities
Lengthy seasons and the statewide Open Fields and
Waters Program make finding a time and place for
your favorite outdoor sport easy. Special signage
marks private lands open for public walk-in hunting
and fishing, and you can find interactive maps
at OutdoorNebraska.org.
On the hunt
Nebraska is committed to helping families
pass the joy of hunting and fishing on to younger
generations. Resident and nonresident youth 15
and younger can get $5 permits for deer, turkey and
archery antelope hunting, and special youth seasons
are designated for upland game and waterfowl hunting. Youth 16 and under do not need a permit to fish
in Nebraska, making a short fishing excursion a great
way to add a little something extra to a family trip.
Game of all sizes can be found in Nebraska, where
critters such as deer, turkeys, pheasants, quail and
grouse find excellent habitat. Seasons are generally
long, and permits are easy and convenient to obtain.
For huntsmen interested in larger game, there are
excellent populations of white-tailed and mule deer,
as well as several permit options. Seasons for archery
Mule Deer
rkeys
GPC
d Magazine/N
NEBRASKAlan
NEBRASKAland Magazine/NGPC
Merriam’s Tu
2012 Nebraska Travel Guide
Get away
together
Anglers visiting northern parts of the state will
find smallmouth bass, sauger and walleye at Lewis
and Clark Lake on the upper Missouri River. The
reservoirs of the Sandhills region contain walleye,
bluegill and other panfish, catfish, northern pike
and perch.
For a quick stop on your way through Nebraska,
look for one of several prime fishing spots along
Interstate 80, particularly in the central portion of
the state between Grand Island and North Platte.
A number of convenience stores along the interstate
sell 1- and 3-day permits..
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Eugene T. Mahoney State Park, just off Interstate 80 near Ashland, is ideal for a weekend
getaway or a family vacation. The park offers year-round activities including camping, swimming
at the Family Aquatic Center, ice skating, horseback trail rides, crafts, fishing and more.
If camping isn’t your style, stay at the Peter Kiewit Lodge and relax in one of 40 guest rooms.
Guests may also reserve one of the modern cabins located throughout the park. For a natureinfused dining experience, try the lodge’s restaurant, where you can enjoy your dinner while
looking out over the scenic Platte River.
Visit OutdoorNebraska.org for more information, or call the reservation center at 402-471-1414.
and muzzleloader hunting begin in September and
December, respectively, and firearm seasons take
place in October and November.
If turkeys are more your taste, you’ll love
Nebraska’s expanded spring and fall seasons, unlimited permit availability and multiple tags per hunter.
Three subspecies roam the state: Merriam’s in the
western Pine Ridge, Rio Grande in the southern
sections and Eastern in the eastern and central regions.
Waterfowl hunters will enjoy the wetlands,
lakes and braided river channels found throughout
the state, while a long upland hunting season means
many chances to pursue pheasants, grouse and quail.
Plan your fishing trip at OutdoorNebraska.org, where
you’ll find directions to the state’s public waters along with
stocking reports and information about available species.
You can even buy your permit online.
Fishing, pgs. 33, 45, 67, 91
State parks, pg. 111
Reel ’em in
Did you know the word “Nebraska” means water?
Derived from the Otoe word for “flat water,” referring
to the shallow Platte River, the state’s name also hints
at the more than 450 public waterways where you can
find your next awe-inspiring catch.
Perhaps the best place to start is in west-central
Nebraska at Lake McConaughy, where serious fishermen go for walleye, white bass and wipers (a large
hybrid striped bass species). The cooler waters of
adjacent Lake Ogallala offer excellent trout fishing,
while the state’s southwestern and south-central
reservoirs are popular destinations for white bass,
wipers and other species.
Content for the Great Outdoors section was
provided by the Nebraska Game and Parks
Commission. Visit OutdoorNebraska.org for
more information about hunting, fishing,
conservation and the state park system.
Lake Ogallala, Ogallala
Lewis and Clark Lake, Crofton
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VisitNebraska.gov
Great Outdoors
7.
NEBRASKAland Magazine/NGPC
Niobrara National Scenic River, Valentine
State of play
If you’re looking for something adventurous to do, you’re in the right place.
Nebraska is filled with fun recreational activities and exciting sporting
Courtesy of E. Vol
k
events. So get geared up and join in the action.
emont
Platte River, Fr
“Wet” your
appetite
8.
Sports & Recreation
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Lake McConaughy, Ogallala
Nebraska may be landlocked, but it has no shortage of
ways to have fun on the water. You can fly across the
Niobrara and Platte rivers on guided air boat tours,
tackle some of the best canoeing spots around and
even head downriver in a livestock tank (known locally as tanking). Outfitters all across the state are standing by to equip you with everything you need for
adventures like these.
In addition, a number of sizable lakes draw you in
with fishing, boating, windsurfing and even kiteboarding. So there’s absolutely no reason to stay dry on your
next vacation.
2012 Nebraska Travel Guide
TD Ameritrade Park Omaha
Viaero Event Center, Kearney
Courtesy of Tri-City Storm
R. Neibel
NEBRASKAland Magazine/N
destinations for trail seekers are Chadron and
Indian Cave state parks. Both offer mountain
bikers and hikers an exhilarating experience,
physically and visually. Other great park trails
can be found at Platte River and Ponca
state parks.
Team players
GPC
Indian Cave State Park,
Park it and ride
It’s no secret that Nebraska is a football state.
Just visit Lincoln during a Husker home game
and you’ll witness the famous “sea of red” heading to
Memorial Stadium. But it’s not all about the touchdowns—Nebraskans embrace all things sportsrelated. You can, too, at venues throughout the state.
If baseball’s your game, you’re certainly in
luck. TD Ameritrade Park Omaha is home to the
NCAA Men’s College World Series as well as the
Creighton Bluejays. Haymarket Park is where you
can catch the Lincoln Saltdogs and Nebraska Husker
baseball teams.
Shubert
Need to get away from the hustle and bustle of the
city? Nebraska’s state parks are your opportunity to
break free from the daily grind, reconnect with nature
and enjoy a variety of outdoor activities. And the best
part is, you won’t have to drive far to find one—
the state is chock full of these recreational havens.
Once you’re there, escape from the car to enjoy
hiking and biking trails. Two of the state’s premier
Or how about hockey? Just head over to the
Viaero Event Center in Kearney to watch the Tri-City
Storm in action. You can also check out the Omaha
Mavericks at the CenturyLink Center Omaha, which
has a little something for everyone. It’s where the
Creighton Bluejays basketball team plays, and it’s
been chosen to host the 2012 U.S Olympic Team
Trials for swimming and the 2012 U.S. Figure
Skating Championships.
Lakes and rivers,
pgs. 33, 42–43, 45, 52–53,
55, 67, 91, 110
Hiking and biking trails, pg. 32
Take ME out to
the BALL game
VisitNebraska.gov
R. Neibel
There’s nothing better on a warm, sunny day than a
family outing at the ballpark. So head out to Papillion’s
brand-new Werner Park to watch the Omaha Storm
Chasers, the Kansas City Royals’ Triple-A affiliate team.
Grab a few hot dogs and a bag of peanuts while you enjoy
this all-American pastime.
Sports & Recreation
9.
Get on the Green
Lush fairways and expansive
vistas have long made Nebraska
ideal for golfers, and the state’s
reputation for great golf continues
to grow. See for yourself—round
up your foursome and head out to
play one of these top courses.
J. Nabb
Quarry Oaks, Ashland
Natural beauty
If you’re looking for spectacular landscapes, pay a visit
to Gering’s Monument Shadows Golf Course, where
you can play 18 holes at the foot of the towering
Scotts Bluff National Monument. Or drop by Bayside
Golf Club, a links-style course with breathtaking views
of Lake McConaughy. Five tee boxes make for a good
time for all skill levels.
You might also try The Prairie Club, described
as five square miles of golfing glory. Several designers,
including former British Open winner Tom Lehman,
created these three distinct courses along the rim of
Courtesy of The Prairie Club
the Snake River Canyon near Valentine in the heart
of Nebraska’s Sandhills. The club has been
recognized by Golf Digest as one of America’s
best new courses.
Near Kearney, Awarii Dunes was inspired
by the golf courses of Ireland. The 18-hole
course stretches across the natural contours
of the countryside.
Award winners
From the very first hole, you’ll see why Wild Horse Golf
Club near Gothenburg is one of the most acclaimed
courses in Nebraska and highly ranked by Golf Digest,
Golf Magazine and Golf Week Magazine. With native
grasses and strategically placed bunkers devouring
The Prairie Club, Valentine
, Gering
ows Golf Course
Monument Shad
errant shots, this links-style course requires even the
best golfers to pull out all the stops to break par.
Quarry Oaks, cut from the woods surrounding an
abandoned rock quarry, is a Nebraska masterpiece.
Spectacular elevation changes challenge players, and
the course’s signature 17th hole with a semi-island
green earned an honorable mention on Golf Digest’s
list of the best 18 holes in America in 2000. The
course has won 10 awards in the past 14 years, including a position in the rankings of the top 100 public
courses in the country.
Also built on the landscape of an old rock quarry,
Iron Horse Golf Club received 4.5 out of 5 stars in
Best Places to Play, a book published by Golf Digest,
and was named one of the top 10 best new affordable
public courses in 2002. Iron Horse is just up the road
from Quarry Oaks, so consider playing these two topranked courses in the same day.
2012 Nebraska Travel Guide
R. Neibel
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Oakland Golf Club, Oakland
favored courses during your visit. Wilderness Ridge
Golf Club in Lincoln thrills players with a stunning
setting and some of the best golf in the area, while
Heritage Hills in McCook boasts a challenging riskreward design with Scottish-links flair.
What list of Nebraska courses would be complete
without a few small-town charmers? Oakland Golf
Club originated as a cow pasture in 1926. Today, it’s
an 18-hole classic and an excellent course to walk.
Less than an hour away in Beemer, the Indian Trails
VisitNebraska.gov
along the Elkhorn River. Closer to the eastern border,
Highland Oaks is a fun nine holes located near Ponca
Golf is a game of finesse, and those first
swings can be tough. For youngsters who are
new to the game, Jim Ager Memorial Golf
Course in Lincoln is the perfect place to
practice. Your family will appreciate all the
features of a championship course on a scale
suitable for young golfers.
The par-27, nine-hole course has two tee
box options to please players of all skill levels,
and lessons are available by appointment.
Open from April 1 to Oct. 31, Jim Ager is
great for family vacations.
State Park with panoramic views of the Missouri River.
Get driving
With nearly 200 courses available for public play,
you’re never too far from the perfect round. For a
complete list of public and semiprivate courses, go to
VisitNebraska.gov. You’ll also find a variety of travel
packages created specifically for golfers.
For more Nebraska golfing action, plan to attend the
2013 U.S. Senior Open at the Omaha Country Club.
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Local character
Get to know Nebraska by playing one of the locally
Country Club serves up another round of 18 holes
Child’s play
Golf
11.
Capital City
Nebraska’s capital is full of undiscovered
gems and unforgettable experiences.
Treasures
Whether you’re in town for a family
vacation, a Big Ten showdown or a
business trip, Lincoln will delight you
with opportunities to experience, see
or learn something new.
n
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adium, Lincol
Memorial St
Nebraska icons
Urban escapes
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Outdoor enthusiasts will love Lincoln’s bike trails and
public parks. The Great Plains Trails, a network of 128
miles of paved and crushed limestone trails, wind their
way through the city and are open for jogging, biking,
walking and horseback riding.
Break away from the bustle of the city at Pioneers
Park and Nature Center with 440 acres of native
prairie, eight miles of hiking trails, several gardens,
and outdoor and indoor animal exhibits. Educational
programming is available for children of all ages,
including day camps in the summer months.
State Capitol, Lincoln
2012 Nebraska Travel Guide
R. Neibel
Begin your visit to the capital city with an introduction
to the capitol itself. The result of a nationwide design
competition won by architect Bertram Grosvenor
Goodhue, the marble and tile mosaic building was
built in four phases over a 10-year period beginning
in 1922. It towers 400 feet over the city and is topped
with “The Sower,” a 19-foot-tall bronze statue.
Tours of the capitol are offered every hour except
the lunch hour.
You can get a close-up look at another symbol
of the Nebraska spirit during your visit to Lincoln—
Memorial Stadium. Guided tours of the home of the
Huskers are available by appointment, or you can
explore the grounds (including the West Stadium Hall
of Champions, the Heisman Room and limited access
to the field) on a self-guided tour.
International Quilt Study
Center and Museum, Lincoln
Sunken Gardens, Lincoln
Courtesy of the International Quilt Study Center and Museum
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Near downtown Lincoln, the Sunken Gardens
feature a breathtaking display of more than 30,000
individual plants. The theme is redesigned each year,
inviting visitors to return again and again. The garden
is the only one in Nebraska listed in National
Geographic’s “300 Best Gardens to Visit in the United
States and Canada.”
Souvenirs from
yesteryear
History buffs can spend time exploring a few of
Lincoln’s more unique museums and get an in-depth
look at uncommon subject matter. Visitors to the
National Museum of Roller Skating southwest of
downtown can see gas-powered skates from the
1950s, explore the evolution of roller skate wheels and
watch clips from skating competitions in exhibits
detailing the sport’s history. Nearby is the American
Historical Society of Germans from Russia, a museum
that shows what life was like in the area’s early
German-Russian colonies.
The University of Nebraska East Campus is home
to the International Quilt Study Center and Museum
and the Larsen Tractor Museum. Displaying more
than 3,500 quilts representing more than 300 years
and 25 countries, the quilt museum houses the largest
publicly held collection in the world. The tractor
museum is the original site of the Nebraska Tractor
Test Laboratory. Today visitors can learn about the
impact of regulated testing on agriculture and see
several antique tractors.
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Lincoln nightlife, pg. 90
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The real Never Never Land
Pioneers Park, Lincoln
VisitNebraska.gov
Three floors of interactive exhibits at the Lincoln Children’s Museum invite youngsters to let
their imaginations fly. Kids will love exploring the space center in a moon rover, sending the hot
air balloon from floor to floor, examining a real airplane in the airport and racing through the
tunnels of the prairie dog town. An infant play area has mirrors, puppets and climbing equipment
for the youngest explorers, and even adults will get into the playful spirit of the museum.
Capital City
13.
Jazz on the Green, Omaha
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Creative pursuits
If you’re looking for the finer things in life, go no further than Nebraska. You can
Sheldon Museu
m of Art, Linco
ln
get your fill at museums showcasing priceless treasures, performing arts centers
hosting world-class entertainment and destinations illustrating the stories of
Picture perfect
Nebraska’s art museums appeal to every taste, whether
you prefer old masters or pop art icons.
Nebraska’s largest and most notable art museum,
Omaha’s Joslyn Art Museum, houses works by
Edgar Degas, Claude Monet, Jackson Pollock,
Dale Chihuly and George Segal. Joslyn also hosts a
selection of temporary exhibits annually that feature
works from other museums, institutions and private
collections worldwide.
Sheldon Museum of Art sits on the University
of Nebraska–Lincoln campus. Begin with a stroll
through the impressive sculpture garden, and then
head inside to delight in the museum’s permanent
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acclaimed authors.
Museum of Nebraska Art, Kearney
2012 Nebraska Travel Guide
Set the stage
Looking for a little entertainment? Indulge your desire
for Broadway theatre, opera, dance and symphony
performances at fantastic venues across the state.
In Omaha, the Holland Performing Arts Center is
the city’s newest large-scale concert hall. The distinctive building boasts precisely engineered acoustics and
has helped transform downtown into a mecca for the
region’s art patrons.
At Omaha’s Orpheum Theater, classical is always
in style. Originally built in 1927, the Orpheum under-
Courtesy of the Lied Center
Lied Center for Performing Arts, Lincoln
went a $10 million renovation in 2002 to restore its
ornate splendor and preserve its place as Nebraska’s
premier theatre destination.
In Lincoln, the Lied Center for Performing Arts
plays host to the finest performing artists. This stateof-the-art facility attracts exceptional regional, national
and international talent.
Both Omaha and Lincoln celebrate summer
with open-air performances on Thursday evenings.
Head to Omaha’s Jazz on the Green in Turner Park at
Midtown Crossing in July and August, and in Lincoln
experience Jazz in June at Sheldon Museum of Art.
Hit the books
Willa Cather, the Pulitzer Prize-winning author
of My Antonia and O Pioneers!, eloquently portrayed
the real struggles and victories of the Plains settlers
in her novels. Cather grew up in and around Red
Cloud, where you can learn more about her
literary contributions at the Willa Cather Pioneer
Memorial and Educational Foundation or hike in
the 608 acres of native prairie found in the Willa
Cather Memorial Prairie.
Another Nebraska literary figure comes to life
at the Mari Sandoz High Plains Heritage Center in
Chadron. The daughter of Swiss immigrants, Sandoz
wrote 23 books, including Old Jules, a biography of
her father. Her works focus on Plains life and weave
a vivid tapestry of the multiethnic culture created
by homesteading.
Journey to Bancroft to uncover the life and
works of Nebraska Poet Laureate John G. Neihardt.
Neihardt is best known for Black Elk Speaks, a book
based on interviews with Oglala Sioux Holy Man
Nicholas Black Elk.
Young
at art
It’s never too early to teach your kids about
the joys of art. Omaha’s Joslyn Art Museum
makes it easy to pass along an appreciation
for all things artistic with kid-friendly events
and family educational programs.
No wonder this fabulous museum was
listed in “10 Best Art Museums for Kids” by
Child Magazine.
Joslyn Art Museum
, Omaha
VisitNebraska.gov
Arts & Culture
15.
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collection, including works by Mary Cassatt, Edward
Hopper, Georgia O’Keefe and Andy Warhol.
For a more homegrown experience, stop by the
Museum of Nebraska Art (MONA) in Kearney.
Focused on works about Nebraska or by Nebraska
artists, MONA provides a glimpse into the soul of
the state from an artist’s perspective.
Amazing works of art can be found throughout
the state at smaller museums such as the Western
Nebraska Arts Center in Scottsbluff and Bone Creek
Museum of Agrarian Art in David City.
John G. Neihardt
State Historic Site, Bancroft
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Bone Creek Museum of
Agrarian Art, David City
5 Trails Winery, Paxton
spirits, especially when you learn about
and taste the one-of-a-kind offerings
from our many wineries, breweries and
distilleries. So decide what you’re in
the mood for and set out to please your
taste buds with flavorful wines, perfectly
brewed beers or smooth vodkas.
Wineries, pg. 78
16.
Local Libations
From grape
to glass
Nebraska may seem an unlikely place to find
vineyards and wineries. But when you consider
our undeniable knack for growing things, it makes
sense that we’ve expanded our interests into wine—
with award-winning results.
Courtesy of Glacial Till Vineyard
A trip to Nebraska will have you in high
Courtesy of 5 Trails Winery
Local
Libations
The majority of the state’s wineries and tasting
rooms welcome visitors to spend a relaxing afternoon
touring the facilities, sampling the wines and purchasing a few favorites.
The wine industry offers several passport
programs or suggested routes if you need a little help
getting started.
Glacial Till Vineyard, Palmyra
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family affair
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Miletta Vista
ne
Wi ry, St. Paul
The Southeast Nebraska Wine Trail is a passport
program that features eight wineries boasting 100 different wines. Get all the juicy details at senewinetrail.org.
If you’re looking for something on more of a
statewide level, try the Nebraska Wine Tour passport.
With nearly 30 delightful stops, this Nebraska Winery
& Grape Growers Association program is sure to
leave a lasting impression on your palate.
Find out more at NebraskaWines.com. This site
also provides information about the Heart of Nebraska
Wine Trail and the Historic Trails Wine Trail.
Visiting a vineyard or winery isn’t necessarily for adults only. Case in point: the annual
Renaissance Festival at James Arthur Vineyards near Raymond. Held in May, the event features
music, food, medieval entertainment, jousting and more. There’s even a kids’ area with games,
crafts, costumes and a ceremonial knighting activity.
It’s also a great time to take the family into the vineyard for a captivating science lesson about
grape growing and winemaking in Nebraska.
The spirits scene
Joss Vodka, La Vista
VisitNebraska.gov
Homebrews.
Home run.
Some of our homemade brews are light and crisp, others are dark and heavy with flavor, but one thing is for
certain . . . Nebraskans have hit it out of the park when
it comes to crafting beer.
Among the most popular of our offerings are the
award-winning Lucky Bucket Pre-Prohibition Lager
from Lucky Bucket Brewing Company, Burning Skye
Courtesy of R. Peterson
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Premium spirits begin with premium grains. And the
same grains that Nebraska’s farmers grow in abundance are the ones used by the state’s distilleries to
manufacture some of the most delicious vodka around.
Cooper’s Chase Distillery in West Point holds the
distinction of being Nebraska’s first federally licensed
distillery. Its flagship product—Chase Vodka—is a
local favorite. Sòlas Distillery in La Vista creates the
ever-popular, super-premium Joss Vodka and offers
tours during select hours on Saturdays.
Scottish Ale from Empyrean Brewing Co., GIT-RDONE American Golden Lager from SchillingBridge
Brewery and the always delicious Golden Fraü Honey
Wheat from Thunderhead Brewing Company.
Look for more information about
wineries and vineyards, tasting rooms
and breweries in the regional sections of
this travel guide. Or scan this QR code
to access a complete list right now.
Empyrean Brewing Co., Lincoln
Local Libations
17.
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Jones Bros. Cupcakes,
Omaha
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A Foodie’s
Fantasy
Joe Tess Place, Omaha
18.
Culinary Travel
Are you one of those vacationers who plans a trip around your
stomach as much as (if not more than) all the things to see and do?
If so, you’re in for some tasty travels.
As seen on TV
Flipping through the channels will likely reveal a number of shows with a culinary focus. And some of those
programs have showcased delectable destinations
right here in Nebraska.
The newest show to hit the state was Man v. Food
Nation. Host Adam Richman traveled to Omaha to
sample the selections at The Drover and Amato’s
Café as well as cheer on a local DJ as he tackled the
Pig Wing Challenge at Starsky’s Bar and Grill.
Fans of the Food Network’s hit series Diners, DriveIns and Dives can check out featured Omaha locales,
including California Tacos and More, Big Mama’s
Kitchen, Brewburgers and Joe Tess Place.
The baking expertise at Omaha’s Jones Bros.
Cupcakes was put to the test during a Valentine’s Day
episode of Cupcake Wars. Even though the bakery
didn’t come out on top, these battle-worn oven
warriors offer quite a yummy selection.
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Friday Night Fish Fry, Lou and Mary Ann’s Bar,
Bee – This legendary fish fry runs year-round, and
it’s certainly not your typical church basement fare.
Steak and Seafood Saturday Night, Sandstone
Grill, Burwell – Diners are treated to a surf and turf
special that changes a bit each week. Just don’t forget
to save room for pie!
Tacos al Pastor, El Rancho, Lincoln – On Thursday
through Sunday evenings, you’ll notice a delicious
wheel of pork cooking al pastor-style in the parking lot.
Chicken Fried Steak, Ole’s Big Game Steakhouse
and Lounge, Paxton – OK so this is technically
always on the menu, but it is simply too good not
to mention.
Steel Grill,
Gering
Two different TV shows in search of scrumptious
holiday treats found their way to the Beatrice Bakery
Co. Unwrapped and The View highlighted this local
bakery’s homemade decadence, including the famous
Grandma’s Fruit and Nut Cake.
And Drifter’s Cookshack at High Plains
Homestead made an appearance on a former Food
Network program. The renowned Indian tacos,
favored by the Crawford locals, landed the eatery a
spot on The Best Of’s “Places to Take Dad” episode.
Beef it up
Naturally you’ll find some of the tastiest steaks in a
state where cows outnumber people. We have a few
suggestions for sampling red meat across Nebraska.
After exploring all the pioneer history and natural
beauty of the Gering area, pull up a chair (and a steak
knife) at the Steel Grill. The hometown atmosphere
will round out your mouthwatering meal nicely.
If you’re visiting Valentine, consider your palate
fortunate. This is a three-steakhouse town featuring
the Peppermill & EK Valentine Lounge, Jordan’s and
Cedar Canyon Steakhouse. All of these spots will
tempt you with their tender steaks.
The steak draw in the Holdrege area has to be
the Speakeasy. This true country steakhouse built
its reputation on delicious strips, ribeyes and flatiron steaks, and the kitchen is devoted to a “from
scratch” approach.
In the urban areas, your options are vast. Omaha’s
Old Market boasts 801 Chophouse, serving up only
prime cuts along with fresh seafood, while Warren
Buffett recommends old-school classics—Gorat’s and
Piccolo Pete’s. And Lincoln is the proud home of two
locations of Misty’s, a big favorite of Husker fans.
Experience
flavor
Special of the day
Many local eateries are well-known for their daily
specials. Here are some you need to experience
for yourself:
Wacky Wing Wednesdays, Bubba’s Anytime Café,
Strang – Buy them by the bucketful, and the waitress
piles the wings right on the table. Extra napkins required.
Pizza Thursdays, Danish Baker, Dannebrog –
Once a week, this baker heats up his ovens to make
some of the tastiest pizza around. And he’s never
stingy with the toppings.
Looking for dining the whole family will
enjoy? Try mixing food and fun. Head to
Ogallala’s Front Street for a mighty fine meal
served up in a cowboy saloon. If you’re there
in the summer, you can catch the dance hall
girls and a main street shootout.
Another great option is the Oregon Trail
Wagon Train. This exciting prairie schooner
ride is complete with Pony Express riders,
American Indians and a chuck wagon cookout in the shadow of Chimney Rock.
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Bubba’s Anytime Café, Strang
For more dining options,
flip through the regional sections
in this guide and look for
Danish Baker,
Dannebrog
NEBRASKAland Magazine/NGPC
Valentine National Wildlife Refuge,
Valentine
The
Natural
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Reconnect with nature’s splendor. All
across Nebraska, ecological wonders
will delight the senses and calm the
mind. So come and take refuge in
this state of pure beauty.
ecological wonder for yourself. Learn more about the
area’s history at the Knight Museum and Sandhills
Center in Alliance and the Sandhills Journey Scenic
Byway Visitor Center near Broken Bow.
For a change of scenery, take a drive to the
southwestern corner of the state, where lush grasslands give way to the sharp edges of the canyons
along the Frenchman Valley.
A new perspective
20.
Natural Encounters
Sandhills
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Sandhills Journey Scenic Byway
Visitor Center, Broken Bow
Head toward central Nebraska and you’ll begin to
notice a dramatic change in the topography. The
rocky formations of the west and the rolling plains
of the east each transition into a sea of undulating,
grass-covered sand dunes called sandhills.
In fact, this is the largest grass-stabilized
dune region in the Western Hemisphere. Guest
ranches, outfitters and other great attractions
throughout the region can help you experience the
peace and solitude of this seemingly untouched
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NEBRASKAland Magazine/NGPC
Bald Eagles,
Lake Ogallala, Ogallala
Crescent Lake National
Wildlife Refuge, Ellsworth
Winging it
Inner sanctuary
Ready to become one with your environment? A
number of wildlife refuges allow you to do just that.
These designated areas help with the conservation of
Nebraska’s indigenous flora and fauna. For you, they
create the perfect nature experience.
Situated east of Valentine, Fort Niobrara National
Wildlife Refuge protects native birds, bison, elk
and the biological diversity found there. A 3.5-mile,
self-guided auto tour allows you to take in all of the
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Courtesy of R. Rasmussen
Bird-watching has long been one of Nebraska’s most
popular ecological pastimes. And it’s no wonder—
more than 300 species visit the state throughout
the year.
Lake Ogallala and Johnson Lake each have bald
eagle viewing areas. Or catch a glimpse of the least
terns and piping plovers that share the beaches of
Lake McConaughy and the sandbars of the Platte
River. The Chicken Dance Trail has mapped out
five birding adventures that can guide you to the
state’s best birding hot spots, greatly increasing the
chances of spotting the more elusive varieties of your
feathered friends.
When it’s a sure bet you’re looking for, you can
find it from late February through early April along the
braided waters of the Platte River. That’s where nearly
half a million sandhill cranes stop to rest and refuel
before continuing their journey north. The best time
to view the cranes is at sunrise and sunset, and you
can reserve your spot in a viewing blind at a handful
of locales between Grand Island and Kearney.
Sandhill Cranes,
Platte River Valley
VisitNebraska.gov
sights and sounds of the refuge’s six ecosystems and
leads you to an observation deck that overlooks the
Niobrara River corridor. You can also hike through
the wilderness for an up-close look. Just don’t
forget the camera—breathtaking and unexpected
views abound.
Other sanctuaries throughout the state include
Crescent Lake, Valentine, Boyer Chute, North Platte
and DeSoto national wildlife refuges.
Unique landscapes, pgs. 33, 54
Birding, pg. 66
Moonwalking
Ever dream about taking your family on a trip to the moon? You can—sort of—with a visit to
Toadstool Geologic Park near Crawford. The unusual rock formations make for an unearthly
experience that you won’t soon forget.
Natural Encounters
21.
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Roca Berry Farm, Roca
Taste farm-fresh produce. Play cowboy
on a guest ranch. Handpick the perfect
pumpkin. No matter what season you
choose to visit, there are dozens of
ways Nebraska’s primary industry—
agriculture—can help make your next
vacation unforgettable.
Handpicked
harvests
Nebraska’s lush soil grows a wide variety of delicious
produce, including berries, asparagus, squash, melons,
sweet corn, peaches, potatoes, cherries and more.
Nothing sweetens the joy of a good harvest like sharing the bounty, and several farms across the state allow
you to pick your own produce right from the fields.
Every spring, thousands head to Roca Berry Farm
near Roca to select the best strawberries from a sixacre patch. You can typically gather these sweet treats
for three weeks beginning around Memorial Day. In
September, visitors return and wander 25 acres of land
to choose a favorite from more than 100,000 pumpkins. The young at heart can also enjoy hayrack rides,
a haunted barn and other fun fall activities.
For unbeatable freshness, pick up some produce
from one of the farmers’ markets that run May
through October. Across the state, you’ll find inseason fruits and vegetables, meats and baked goods
all summer long.
For a list of u-pick locales and farmers’ markets
statewide, visit ourbesttoyou.nebraska.gov.
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Grow your own
memories
Broken Bow Fa
rmers’ Market,
Broken Bow
2012 Nebraska Travel Guide
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Scarecrow Patch,
St. Libory
Nebraska City’s
autumnal
adventures
Courtesy of Arbor Day Farm
h, Burwell
Rowse’s 1+1 Ranc
Perfect
pumpkins
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Real-life rodeos
When the Nebraska plains give way to the rolling
sandhills, you know you’ve entered ranch territory—
where the pace is a bit slower, the cattle outnumber
the people and the pie is always homemade. Out here,
Midwestern hospitality is second nature and real-life
cowboys still rope ’n’ ride.
To truly experience the way of life prevalent in
these parts, visit one of the many working guest ranches and lend a hand. In addition to cozy accommodations, several ranches offer visitors the opportunity to
drive cattle, mend fences and help with daily chores.
If you’re looking for a more relaxed experience,
many guest ranches offer milder activities too. Follow
the trails on horseback, observe the wildlife, fish the
local waters and let the quiet surroundings soothe
your soul.
The end of summer brings with it new kinds of
fun everyone can enjoy. When fall finally settles in
and your thoughts start drifting to costumes and
candy, head to Vala’s Pumpkin Patch in Gretna to
find just the right jack-o-lantern. Vala’s also offers
special shows, rides and themed attractions, such
as pig races, a pumpkin chuckin’ cannon show,
tractor and pony rides, and a haunted house.
Another great stop is the Scarecrow Patch
near Grand Island. Explore the Scarecrow Fort, visit
the petting zoo or get lost in the corn maze. Before
you leave, be sure to pick out a special souvenir at
the gift shop.
Fall in Nebraska City comes with plenty of
opportunities for outdoor fun with the family.
Take a tour of Arbor Day Farm on the
Discovery Ride, a safari experience through
the orchards, vineyards and fields of the
260-acre farm. Or go on a u-pick adventure
at Kimmel Orchard, where you can find
apples, pears, grapes and other seasonal fruits
and vegetables.
In late September, gather the family for
an apple harvest celebration, the AppleJack
Festival. Activities for all ages are available, and
the festival has been recognized as a fall favorite by the Society of American Travel Writers.
Vala’s Pumpkin Patch,
Gretna
Courtesy of Omaha Chamber/E. Francis
Guest ranches, pg. 54
VisitNebraska.gov
Agricultural Experiences
23.
Discovering the open road
A true Nebraska vacation isn’t defined by one destination or another. It’s the journey—
the culmination of sights and sounds you encounter along the way. That’s what Nebraska’s
Byways are all about. These nine scenic stretches will have you waving goodbye to the
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hustle and bustle of everyday life and saying hello to newfound adventure.
Bridges to Buttes Byway
Chadron
Crawford
2
7
Valentine
Crofton
Ponca
South Sioux City
1
Alliance
Mullen
8
Scottsbluff
Dunning
Bridgeport
9
Kimball
Fremont
6
Ogallala
5
Blair
Columbus
Broken Bow
North Platte
Sidney
4
Burwell
Wood River
Grand Island
Lincoln
Kearney
Beatrice
Alma
1.
2.
3.
4.
385 – Gold Rush Byway U.S. Hwy 385
Bridges to Buttes Byway U.S. Hwy 20
Heritage Highway U.S. Hwy 136
Lewis & Clark Scenic Byway U.S. Hwy 75
5.
6.
Lincoln Highway Scenic & Historic Byway
U.S. Hwy 30
Loup Rivers Scenic Byway
NE Hwy 11 and NE Hwy 91
Brownville
3
7.
8.
9.
Outlaw Trail Scenic Byway NE Hwy 12
Sandhills Journey Scenic Byway NE Hwy 2
Western Trails Scenic & Historic Byway
U.S. Hwy 26 and NE Hwy 92
For an interactive map of Nebraska’s Byways, go to VisitNebraska.gov/byways.
E. Bouvier
The Sandhills Drive-In,
Alliance
[1] 385 – Gold Rush Byway [2] Bridges to Buttes
In the 1870s, as much as $200,000 in gold was transByway
ported each day along this 158-mile route. Today,
your experience will be golden even if your cargo isn’t!
A wealth of history can be found at museums and
attractions that tell the tale of pioneer life and military
heritage. The geologic playground features the rugged
Pine Ridge and enough single-track trails to make
you wonder whether Mother Nature didn’t own a
mountain bike. Quirky stops, such as Carhenge, add
to the fun. VisitNebraska.gov/goldrush
Nearly 200 miles of untamed open road stretch out
before you, offering new adventures at every turn. This
is Nebraska in its most pristine form, as the subtle and
rolling sandhills transform into striking and majestic
bluffs and buttes. Under the wide-open skies, you’ll
find a national grassland, horseback and Jeep tours
of the Pine Ridge, and archaeological digs featuring
mammoths and other fossils. VisitNebraska.gov/bridges
[3] Heritage Highway
From the wooded bluffs along the Missouri River to
the expansive playground of Harlan County Lake,
this enchanting 238-mile byway cuts through lush
fields of fertile farmland and down the main streets
of historic communities. Hike, bike and ride horses
along tree-lined riverbanks; tour Homestead National
Monument of America; visit the home of Willa
Cather; or peruse the galleries and shops in historic
Brownville. HeritageHighway136.com
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Roadside Sculpture
on Heritage Highway
VisitNebraska.gov
Nebraska Byways
25.
Courtesy of Too
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l
Far North
,
Too Far North
Fort Calhoun
[4] Lewis & Clark
Scenic Byway
The Phe
lps Hote
Big Spri l,
ngs
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In 1804, Meriwether Lewis and William Clark
embarked on a journey that would take them along
what is now the eastern border of Nebraska. Follow
in the footsteps of these two famous explorers through
the bountiful cropland and beautifully wooded
bluffs framing the Missouri River. Along the 82-mile
route, discover two national wildlife refuges, a small
tribal herd of bison and the vibrant culture of the
Winnebago and Omaha American Indian tribes.
LewisAndClarkScenicByway.com
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Outlaw Trail
Scenic Byway
Strike out along America’s first transcontinental
highway and witness history firsthand. This 400-mile
byway will introduce you to a Pony Express station,
sod houses, wagon ruts from the Oregon Trail and
even the ranch of Buffalo Bill Cody. Head outdoors
for a dip in Lake McConaughy—the state’s largest
recreational lake. And in 2013, take part in the
Lincoln Highway Centennial celebration at the
Great Platte River Road Archway.
LincolnHighwayNebraskaByway.com
Rocking C
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hair Inn,
Broken B
ow
ne Grill,
Burwell
Sandsto
26.
Scenic Byways
[5] Lincoln Highway
Scenic & Historic Byway
[6] Loup Rivers
Scenic Byway
Named after the North, Middle and South Loup
rivers, this byway stretches 150 miles through scenic
sandhills and fertile river valleys. Here you can catch
the action of Nebraska’s Big Rodeo and learn the
history of Fort Hartsuff. Canoe or tank along the
glistening rivers as they cut through the scenic terrain.
Hunting and fishing is plentiful, and photographers,
too, get their fill with rare wildlife sightings and the
annual sandhill crane migration.
LoupRiversScenicByway.com
2012 Nebraska Travel Guide
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Wildcat Hills State Recreation Area, Gering
[7] Outlaw Trail
Scenic Byway
[8] Sandhills Journey
Scenic Byway
[9] Western Trails
Scenic & Historic Byway
Rumored to be the onetime hideout of outlaw
Jesse James, this 231-mile byway is home to much
more friendly inhabitants today. Meet these fine
folks as you uncover the region’s colorful past at a
variety of museums and historic sites. Complete the
journey relaxing near an unspoiled expanse of the
Missouri River, enjoying nature at three state parks or
floating down the Niobrara National Scenic River—
one of the top 10 canoeing rivers in the nation.
NebraskaOutlawTrail.org
Meandering through Nebraska’s unexplored frontier,
this byway winds 272 miles through remote countryside highlighted by dramatic landscapes, including
abundant grasslands, rolling sandhills, clear blue lakes
and the world’s largest hand-planted forest. Explore
the area’s past at the Knight Museum and Sandhills
Center and Stuhr Museum of the Prairie Pioneer.
History, birding, guest ranches and stargazing under
a big Nebraska sky—this byway has it all.
SandhillsJourney.com
In the mid-1800s, this route was a main thoroughfare
of the great western migration. Today, it’s a breathtaking journey that attracts outdoor enthusiasts from
every direction. Along the 144-mile byway, you can
fish, sail and ski on one of the largest reservoirs in
the Midwest; stand in the shadows of Courthouse
and Jail Rocks; view bald eagles; ride in a covered
wagon around Chimney Rock; and work as a
visiting ranch hand on one of the area cattle ranches.
VisitNebraska.gov/westerntrails
Byways: Family-style
Imagine all the interesting things your family can find along Nebraska’s Byways—a huge train yard, interactive
history exhibits, a haunted hotel, outdoor recreation and more! But how do you decide where to start?
Why not let the kids help you? Take them to VisitNebraska.gov/youth to see videos featuring our cartoon
friend, Tyler, the youngest travel expert in Nebraska. You can also scan the QR code in the kids’ section on the
following page to watch the videos on your smartphone.
Find longer, less kid-oriented byways
videos at VisitNebraska.gov/podcast.
You can also access them on:
VisitNebraska.gov
Or . . . scan this QR code with
your smartphone to see the
videos right now.
Scenic Byways
27.
E
N
O
Z
’
s
d
Ki
Hey there! I’m Tyler,
Maze
and I’m just a regular kid
(OK, fine, a cartoon kid) trying to get out there and see all the fun
stuff in this state. Check out some videos of my
adventures at VisitNebraska.gov/youth. Or ask to
borrow a parent’s smartphone and scan this QR
code thing to watch them right now.
Twist and turn your way to the top of Nebraska’s capitol building. The solution is on page 177.
Picture Search
Can you find the 10 differences between these two pictures of Union
Pacific engines at Cody Park in North Platte? Answers on page 177.
6922
6922
PA C I F I C
6922
6922
Word Search
Find all of the words and uncover a hidden message. Words could go horizontally,
vertically or diagonally . . . and watch out for the ones that are backward!
Airplanes
Goldenrod
Ranch
Aquifer
Golden Spike
Sandhills
Biking
Hiking
Stargazing
Bison
Honeybee
Summer
Camping
Horseback
Tent
Canoeing
Lake
Unicameral
Chimney Rock
Meadowlark
Water
Cottonwood
Military
Wildlife
Festivals
Nebraska
Zoo
Fishing
Ogallala
Hidden Message: Nebraska is the Otoe word for . . .
____ ____ ____ ____
____ ____ ____ ____ ____
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(Fill in the blanks with the first nine unused letters. Answer on page 177.)
VisitNebraska.gov
Kids’ Games
29.